PARLIAMENT went into its summer recess at the end of July but my work here in Taunton and Wellington to support people across the area continues uninterrupted.

Life as an MP obviously means being in London a lot of time so this break enables me to spend more time in the constituency.

The opportunity to help people – and to make a difference – is why I came into politics in the first place and, as your MP, I am here to support you in any way I can.

In fact, with the help of a small team of staff and volunteers, I have now answered more than 8,000 cases and requests for help.

Apart from the beautiful countryside of Somerset, the county where I grew up, one of the things I love best about Taunton and Wellington is the fantastic sense of community.

That ranges from residents fighting local causes to a myriad of clubs, societies and events run by people out of the goodness of their hearts.

I recently joined more than 40 members of the public at a meeting of Wellington Town Council following the announcement that Luson Surgery in Fore Street is to close.

Their concern was palpable and, as reviving the NHS was and remains my main priority since the General Election, I was gutted to hear the surgery was closing.

However, it was heartening to see the community coming together and the councillors working cross-party to get to grips with the issue.

I am pleased to take up their cause. Wellington needs more GPs and improved pharmacy provision – the town is growing apace and it must have the infrastructure to accompany that growth.

The summer recess also allows me to attend many of the wonderful events taking place across Taunton and Wellington.

One of the biggest is the magnificent Taunton Flower Show where I was joined by my wife, Caro.

I also couldn’t miss this year’s Sampford Arundel Fete where I was lucky enough to win a coconut once again, but less fortunate in serving as target practice for wet sponge throwers!

To be honest, the hot weather made me jump at the chance – it was thoroughly refreshing and all in a good cause, the new Village Hall project.

The past month has seen the opening of new offices for Taunton and Wellington Liberal Democrats.

I, too, will be based in separate offices in the same building in Castle Street which will provide a permanent headquarters and really boost our efforts in working for you.

Thank you to everyone who gives up their time in whatever way to come together for our community.

Whenever we join in to help out – be it the village fete or a formal voluntary group – we’re the better for it and we stand stronger, as a community.

I’m incredibly proud to be your MP and will continue to work on your behalf.

If you have an issue you’d like to raise, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a great summer!